Distribution patterns and biological aspects of Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis (Echinoidea: Echinoida) in Russian waters of the Barents Sea: implications for commercial exploration

Abstract

Sea urchin roe is a high-quality product in terms of its nutritional value, valuable biochemical composition, and acquired taste. Urchin stocks, however, have been overfished worldwide and new candidates for commercial harvesting and aquaculture are required to satisfy the demand from the expanding market. The green sea urchin Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis from Russian waters of the Barents Sea may be considered a new source for potential consumers. We summarized available information regarding distribution patterns, feeding, reproduction, and growth as well as studies focused on farming of this species to assess the fishery and aquaculture potential of the area. This species is abundant in the coastal zone where it is commonly associated with laminarian kelp. The brown algae Saccharina latissima is the primary diet for S. droebachiensis but it also consumes animal foods. Red king crabs are the main predators for sea urchins but they do not significantly affect the S. droebachiensis population. A spawning peak of S. droebachiensis is registered in March–April. Green sea urchins reach a commercial size of 50 mm diameter at age 6 and the estimated stock of commercial urchins is 50,000–81,000 t. The most promising sites for harvesting are Varanger-fjord and Bolshoy Oleniy Island plus Porchnikha Bay. The best harvesting seasons are February–March and September–October. Sea-based rearing systems appear to be the most suitable approach for sea urchin aquaculture based on grow-out of adult animals fed on algal or mixed diets.